Background: Mohs surgery and other surgical techniques are used for the removal of squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip and may leave a large defect in the vermilion and underlying tissue. When nearly the entire lower lip is excised, reconstruction of this defect is a challenge. Repair requires the matching of vermilion color, maintenance of oral sphincter function and mouth opening size, and retention of sensation. Several techniques have been suggested. We present a modification of the Webster flap for total lower lip reconstruction using innervated muscle-bearing flaps.
Objective: To present a surgical technique for the reconstruction of total lower lip defects after excision of squamous cell carcinoma.
Methods: Innervated muscle-bearing flaps are used and demonstrated in one case. The surgical technique is discussed in detail.
Results: The reconstructive results were excellent. There were no postoperative complications.
Conclusion: The use of innervated muscle-bearing flaps is a useful and effective option for the reconstruction of total lower lip defects.